Gallup reports that barely 1 in 10 people have “what it takes” to be a leader or manager. And nearly 2 in 10 have “some” of these traits that Gallup reports as necessary for a good manager or leader. Which is why we were so moved as to write about 9 simple ways you can become a better manager or leader right now.
Listen to Your Team
It’s not necessary for leaders to know everything. They will need to get input from the team. Teams are usually made up of people with varying skills and even intelligence. Always ask your team for input and listen to what they have to say. You may still be required to make any final decisions, but when you get the team involved, they will feel connected.
Don’t Be Afraid to Make Tough Decisions
Your team may not like every decision you make. That can often scare leaders into not making the right decisions, or worse, no decisions at all. As long as you have reasons for making your decisions, you can use that to back them up when people challenge your decisions.
Delegate to Team Members
Leaders make the mistake of trying to manage everything. Sometimes it’s best to find a few members of your team who you can trust to carry out some of your functions. You may have to give up some power, but you can hold those members accountable in exchange.
Admit When You’re Wrong
Everyone makes mistakes. Leaders are no different. When you make a mistake, be up front with your team about it. They will respect this more than were you to try and cover up those mistakes. The key is to try and get everyone on the team to learn from those mistakes.
Show Appreciation
When your team members do good work, make sure you let them know about it. Appreciation goes a long way, and they will appreciate you back for it. When you gain their respect, they will do more for you after you give them kudos.
Be Willing to Jump In
Just because you are the leader does not mean you can’t lend a hand and pitch in. Sometimes the team may need some extra help, and you should be ready to offer that to them. This does not mean that you have to do their work for them. Having you as the backup can help the team succeed.
Be a Mentor to Team Members
If you can help your members to become more successful, the whole team will benefit. Act in a mentor capacity to help them achieve the objectives of the team.
Participate in Team Activities
When the team meets up after work for a gathering, be willing to participate, at least, some of those extra-office activities. Your team will want to get to know you outside of the office and will want you to get to know them as well. When possible, try to get the company to pick up the tab on occasion.
Keep Meetings as Short as Possible
If you have to have meetings, make sure you keep them as short as you can. Your team is trying to get their work done, and they don’t need to be bogged down in long meetings.
